Childcare Articles

In early childhood education, the phrase “school readiness” often conjures images of children sitting quietly at tables, practicing handwriting or phonics. But this narrow view overlooks the rich, embodied ways that young children learn. As research and practice continue to…

Long Service Leave (LSL) is a valuable entitlement that rewards employees for extended service with the same employer. For early childhood educators—who often work in emotionally demanding, relational roles—LSL offers a chance to rest, reflect, and recharge after years of…

In the wake of child abuse allegations and the rollout of policies like Four Eyes, early childhood educators are being asked to be more present, more vigilant, and more accountable. But presence alone is not enough. True safeguarding requires witnessing—not…

In the wake of recent news, early childhood settings face a moral and professional imperative: to go beyond compliance and embed emotionally intelligent, culturally safe practices that truly protect children. This article introduces the Four V’s Framework—Visibility, Voice, Validation, and…

In early childhood settings, the word “no” carries weight. It can signal safety, set boundaries, and teach children about limits. Yet, in some centres, policies now discourage educators from using “no” in any context, sparking debate across the sector. Is…

In light of the recent Four Corners investigation and the distressing realities it has brought to the surface, the following is a sample letter to share with families. This letter is designed to offer calm, transparent reassurance while reaffirming your…

In educational environments, relationships with families are central to building trust, collaboration, and shared responsibility. However, when those relationships become strained, especially through verbal abuse, intimidation, or threats, leaders must act decisively to protect staff well-being and uphold respectful conduct.…

Celebrating Halloween in early childhood settings can be enriching, but it’s important to weigh the benefits and challenges thoughtfully. Here's a breakdown to help guide your decision:

Here’s a playful set of questions you can use during group time to explore children’s understanding of Halloween. These are designed to spark curiosity, storytelling, and cultural reflection, while keeping things warm and inclusive.

In early childhood services, leadership is relational. Whether you're guiding a new educator or supporting a seasoned team member through change, knowing when to coach and when to mentor is essential. These approaches aren’t interchangeable; they serve different purposes, require…

In the fast-paced world, leadership isn’t just about compliance or curriculum; it’s about connection. One of the most powerful, yet often overlooked, tools in a leader’s toolkit is the humble check-in ritual. These moments of intentional pause can transform team…

The following article provides 5 examples of risk assessments tailored for early childhood services, including Local Park Excursion, Art & Sensory Play, Loose Parts Construction Zone Risk Assessment, Fire Drill & Emergency Evacuation, and Dramatic Play with Costumes & Props,…